France: Fuel shortages worsening May 30 /update 1

Event

Due to a strike launched on May 26 by truck drivers tasked with transporting “dangerous” substances, including gasoline and diesel, major fuel shortages are possible in the coming days throughout the country. Participation in the strike is particularly strong in the west (Donges, Nantes, La Rochelle) and in the Paris region, where at least 70 percent of drivers were reportedly on strike as of Monday, May 29. Gas station generally have a minimum of three days’ worth of fuel; however, the first signs of shortages started in Paris region service stations on Sunday, May 28. As of Tuesday, May 30, at least 21 of the 350 stations in the Paris region were totally dry, along with 61 stations out of diesel and 42 out of gasoline.

The drivers have started to block access to the Grandpuits oil refinery (Seine-et-Marne department) and the La Rochelle oil depot (Charente-Maritime). At least eight of the nine oil depot in Île-de-France, home to the capital, are surrounded by partial blockades, considerably slowing down fuel deliveries.

Context

The General Confederation of Labor (CGT), a major trade union, called for the strike to demand better work conditions. There are currently no talks planned between management and union representatives despite a threat to intensify the movement.

Advice

Individuals present in France are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to ensure sufficient fuel reserves before all long journeys. This website (in French) allows users to see the shortages in real time by location.